HMRC has announced that the Customs Handling of Import and Export Freight System will be closing for import declarations soon ...
Compared to the Customs Handling of Import and Export Freight system (CHIEF), the Customs Declaration Service (CDS) offers an enhanced service, a better user experience, and a host of specialist functions.
All goods can be declared on one platform simultaneously which reduces operational costs and reduces the administrative burden of two separate systems. All declaration data is free of charge so it's easy to access import/export data, check tariffs and review financial statements.
To use the CDS, you must:
- Register for a Government Gateway account (if not already registered)
- Obtain an Economic Operator Registration and Identification (EORI) number (businesses currently importing or exporting should already have this)
- Obtain a Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) number (businesses registered for corporation tax or self-assessment should already have this)
You will also need specialist software to access the CDS.
If you use an intermediary for your customs declarations, you must ensure they are able to submit declarations via the CDS on your behalf. If you want to submit your own declarations then HMRC has software available for download on their website.
There are also several payment methods available through the CDS to clear goods for import. These include a duty deferment account, Postponed VAT accounting for imports, cash accounting and immediate payment via card, BACS or direct bank transfer.
It is worth remembering that currently, anyone moving goods between Great Britain and Northern Ireland can still use the Trader Support Service for customs, safety and security declarations, though this may change if the Government makes alterations to the Northern Ireland Protocol.
If you feel inspired to find out more about anything I've said here, do call me on 01908 774320 or leave a comment below and I'll be in touch as soon as I can.